Balanced, experienced, quick and physical -- the elements are in place.
Now the New Westminster Salmonbellies just need to put it all together in a 60-minute package.
The Western Lacrosse Association’s 2016 season began this week, and as runner-ups for last year’s league crown the Bellies enter motivated and engaged.
Saturday’s season opener in Coquitlam, where New West takes on the Adanacs, will provide the first test to those high expectations.
Coquitlam kicked off the season with an 8-6 loss to Burnaby, and will try to build on that.
“Going into another team’s building to start the season is always a good test,” said New West general manager Dan Richardson. “We’ve got to play a good 60 minutes and work hard.
“Coquitlam is a tough place to play for us and we’ve had our share of stinkers in that building.”
While the Bellies will be missing some key players to the National Lacrosse League playoffs -- Anthony Malcom, Mitch Jones, both with Buffalo, and New England’s Brandon Goodwin -- as well as first-round draft pick Michael Messenger to the NCAA playoffs, the roster is still stocked with plenty of veteran leaders and skill.
When it comes to wins, the first game carries as much weight as the last one, said Richardson.
“You can’t let anything slip in this league, so every game is vital,” he noted. “Two points now means two points later, and you need as many wins under your belt to get that playoff spot first.”
Next week (May 26), New West will play host to the Nanaimo Timbermen in their home opener. The Bellies welcome all members of New West minor lacrosse, including family members and volunteers, into the game for free.
This year, the senior Bellies are giving away $2,500 in prizes at the home opener to registered NWMLA players, including a hoverboard and an iPad. You must be a registered member of New West minor lacrosse and in the building to win.
